As vehicle electronics grow more complex, a compact test platform is aiming to streamline validation across modern automotive communication networks.

GÖPEL electronic has introduced the MagicCAR compact plus, a scalable desktop test platform designed to support the development and validation of modern automotive electronic control units (ECUs). Building on the company’s existing benchtop testing system, the new platform addresses the increasing complexity of software defined vehicles and advanced ECU architectures while providing a compact solution for laboratory and engineering environments.
The platform is intended to support automotive original equipment manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers throughout the ECU development cycle, from early validation to production testing. It enables network, infotainment, functional, endurance, and quality testing while allowing engineers to reproduce real world communication scenarios and fault conditions. By integrating multiple test capabilities into a single platform, the system can reduce setup complexity and improve testing efficiency across different development stages.
MagicCAR compact plus incorporates a programmable power supply with switchable terminal signals and precise current measurement. It supports residual bus simulation, diagnostics, and Secure Onboard Communication across major automotive communication standards including CAN FD, LIN, FlexRay, and Automotive Ethernet. Expandable fault modules allow engineers to simulate communication failures and verify ECU behaviour under controlled fault conditions. The platform can also interface with external instruments such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, and data loggers for more advanced test configurations.
A key enhancement in the new generation is an integrated onboard logging function that records communication traffic from ECU interfaces directly onto an internal solid state drive. The built in storage enables continuous loss free data capture at high transmission rates, reducing the need for external logging hardware, particularly for Automotive Ethernet and domain controller applications.
Click here for the official announcement.



